We had the great pleasure of spending a 3 days in the Wilton Manors area of Ft Lauderdale proper. What a treat it was as our friends from Atlanta came down with us as we were headed to the Carribean out of the Port Everglades. I should say, that we, and not they, went to Ft Lauderdale with them as their son just purchased a home on a deep water canal that leads out to the Intracoastal and to the Atlantic. Well, guess what, it, the home, was within walking distance of the finest seafood house in the area, the Old Florida Seafood Houses. Had not been there since the mid 80's and it was exceptionally delicious. The Chilean Sea Bass was the best that I have ever had. The service was good and a good time was had by all.
I could not believe how much the stretch of Federal Hwy from Sunrise to the Port has changed, and changed for the better. What was once tacky, small shops has turned into beautifully landscaped shopping centers. Downtown Ft Lauderdale was unrecognizable to these old eyes. What used to be a small one horse downtown, is now a city of beauty. Skyscrappers, banks, businesses and more. Quite a treat.
I thought that when I left Broward in l988, it was sad to see the "developement" that was underway. Now,upon return, the ongoing construction of downtown is no more and the area is one of envy for other cities in the South.
So, if the cost of living was a little cheaper, I would venture to go back down. However, being the realist that I am, I will stay put in our little bit of Heaven here in the Ocala National Forest.
All in all, one nice venture.